Regarding Issue No. 1 on the Aug. 6, 2013, special election ballot in the city of Norton:

The residents of Norton should be keenly aware that the impact of this proposed charter amendment (should it pass) would financially cripple this city and the services that are currently being provided to the Norton taxpayers. I find it amusing that these self-seeking members from the Citizens4Norton group routinely come to Norton City Council meetings bantering and complaining about the city’s expenditures in legal fees. These legal expenditures are a direct result of the city defending itself against the Citizens4Norton group’s “causes.” Filing multiple lawsuits against the city shows no fiduciary responsibility toward the Norton taxpayers’ money on their part.

I urge Norton voters to vote “NO” on Issue No. 1 on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2013. While exercising your right to vote, you can rejoice and enjoy the fact that you are ALL literally paying for the privilege of this special election, to the tune of well over $10,400-plus. This burden is compliments of the Citizens4Norton, which is a nonprofit group.

Don Nicolard, president and Ward 2 representative, Norton City Council

Editor’s note: Issue No. 1 is a proposed charter amendment by petition involving sewer and water rate assessments, connection fees and rate limits. To view the text of the proposed amendment, visit www.summitcountyboe.com/PDFs/2013/90DayAug.pdf.